'Signature' fundraiser helps the March of Dimes

More than 300 people recently enjoyed the culinary creations of more than 20 local chefs at a food lovers' feast to help a good cause.

The 16th annual Signature Chefs Auction, which raised more than $88,000 for the March of Dimes Broward Division, was staged at the Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa in Fort Lauderdale.

"It was very well-attended event, particularly being in the middle of the week," said Gerard Litrento, event chairman.

Guests moved from station to station, enjoying a variety of dishes while sipping on wines and spirits from local sommeliers and mixologists. In between bites, they were encouraged to bid on an array of live and silent auction items, with the proceeds benefiting the March of Dimes' programs and research efforts.

Guests also heard a number of success stories from the nonprofit organization, which works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, infant mortality and premature birth.

"The event is so important for raising people's awareness about the work that the organization does," Litrento said.

Heading up the culinary effort was celebrity chef Paul Niedermann, season nine winner of "Hell's Kitchen," and local chefs included Chris Nealon of Aruba Beach Cafe, Marc Gruverman of The Capital Grille, Chi Chan of Truluck's, Angelo Elia of Casa D'Angelo, Jason Smith of Steak 954 in the W Hotel, and Alan Forgea of Blue Moon Fish Company.

"People just had a really good time, eating and networking. That was a big part of it, in addition to raising money and awareness for the March of Dimes," Litrento said.